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Consultant on Humanitarian Relief Aid to Syria

Terms of reference
Consultant On Humanitarian Relief Aid To Syria

1. Purpose
The Asfari Foundation works in Syria, Lebanon, Palestine and the UK. We give partner organisations in these countries the resources to:
· Provide talented and motivated young people with the education or training they need to make a positive contribution;
· Bring people together to develop and share practical knowledge that makes civil society more effective;
· Provide humanitarian aid in emergency situations.

The Said Foundation works in the same target countries and additionally Jordan with the aim to bring positive and lasting change to the lives of children, young people and wider communities, through:
· a Syria Development programme that promotes the social development of Syria with an emphasis on health, childhood disability, higher education and cultural heritage;
· a Child Development Programme that supports the most disadvantaged children in our target countries in the fields of education and disability;
· a Further Education Programme that provides the opportunity for young people to expand their skills and knowledge and thereby to enhance their contribution to the development of the Levant region;
· Support for Oxford University’s Said Business School, to promote the beneficial role of business in society.

The Foundations are deeply concerned at the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Syria, and that of Syrians displaced in neighbouring countries. The Foundations are keen to help the people of Syria affected by the crisis. They wish to appoint a temporary consultant to ensure that they support the most urgent needs in Syria, that the aid provided is effective and appropriate and that donations meet UK charity legislation and best practice.

2. Expected outputs
The Consultant will be responsible for the following outputs:

· Regularly update the Foundations on the changing humanitarian situation in Syria;
· Through thorough research and assessment, present the CEOs and the Trustees with considered and appropriate options for relief aid to Syria;
· For options that are approved, follow up on all steps required for effective transfer and use of the funds, and transparency and accountability;
· Other related tasks that may arise.

3. Methodology
The Consultant will develop their own work plan in close cooperation with the Foundations’ CEOs. The work plan should include the following:

· Hold regular meetings with the CEOs and Foundations contacts;
· Collect information through research, meetings and other means;
· Submit regular reports and proposals to the Foundations;
· Follow up on projects that have been approved;
· Follow up on related matters and enquiries;
· Communicate as appropriate with the Said and Asfari Foundations’ CEOs.

4. Budget
The Consultant will include in the proposal their proposed consultancy fees for the work, which will be agreed with the Foundations. 50% of the fees will be payable mid-way through the Consultancy, with the remaining 50% due upon successful completion.

5. Contact persons
The Consultant will report directly to the CEOs of the Said and Asfari Foundations.

6. Timeframe
The Consultancy will start as soon as possible. The duration of the consultancy will be a maximum of 40 working days over three months from the start of the consultancy.

7. Location
The Consultant will be expected to be self-sufficient administratively, and to work from home. Ideally the consultant would be based in the UK. Some travel to the region may be required. Travel costs and reasonable expenses for any travel abroad would be paid for by the Foundations. No expenses will be payable for travel or work-related expenses in the consultant’s home country.

8. Consultant’s profile
The Consultant should have the following skills and qualifications:

· A degree in a relevant subject;
· At least five years’ experience in humanitarian emergency contexts and a good understanding of humanitarian approaches and standards;
· Good knowledge of the Arab world, particularly Syria;
· A sound understanding of the UK charity context, in particular that of funding organisations;
· Experience of working with local and international project partners;
· Ability to analyse diverse and complicated information and develop recommendations for an appropriate response to needs identified;
· Fluent written and spoken English;
· Good or fluent written and spoken Arabic is highly desirable;
· Ability to travel at short notice;
· Excellent writing skills;
· Very strong organisational skills;
· Self-motivation and discipline;
· Sensitivity, tact and flexibility.

To apply, please send a short proposal on your suitability for the work and a short work plan (max three pages), suggested fees and your CV (no longer than three pages) to info@asfarifoundation.org.uk. The closing deadline for applications is 11 April. Interviews may take place on 17 April.